Chile at a Glance

Glaciers, sea-shore, volcanoes and epic mountains lure visitors to Chile and might just make them be back time and time again.

Chile's far southern tip is buffeted by the moist Humboldt Current. Go bird watching here at the end of the earth and hike the open parts of Parque Nacional Tierra Del Fuego. This forested and coastal region has a few areas open to people, but the rest are wild areas for animals and can't be accessed.

Further north, constant winds shape the rocks, snow and mountains and the trekking is glorious. Travel high up and away from human civilization. Cross glaciers and watch for rabbits, martins and birds of prey. Listen to the rattle of the wind and pause for stellar pictures.

Parts of Chile can be quite warm. Paddle or sail up and down the long coastline. Enjoy a cooling dip on a muggy summer day. Explore the coast and enjoy the hospitality, nightlife and culture in Santiago or elsewhere. Walk deep into a temperate forest and explore untouched land. Wait until winter to travel and you'll have skiing in the middle of July.

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Puerto Varas was built by German immigrants during the early 20th century. Gorgeous lake-front, distant volcanoes and a certain Germanic charm make Puerto Varas a unique and irresistible destination today.

Easter Island is one of the most remote places on earth. This tiny island has been home to the Rapa Nui since they arrived here sometime around the 8th century. The island is famous for its maoai sculptures, but offers so much more to see and do.

Puerto Varas was built by German immigrants during the early 20th century. Gorgeous lake-front, distant volcanoes and a certain Germanic charm make Puerto Varas a unique and irresistible destination today.

Visitors to Chile do not need a tourist visa if they intend to stay for fewer than 90 days. Upon arrival at the Santiago Airport, tourists must pay a $160 U.S fee for a tourist card, which must remain with them until their departure. For more information, contact a Chilean Consulate. American citizens can use the U.S State Department's website as a resource as well.

Need to Know

Severe Weather and Seismic Events Chile's climate ranges from north to south. Be prepared for mountain snow during the winter. Santiago has hot summers and cool winters. Extreme southern Chile has cool, moist weather year-round. Earthquakes are a fact of life here and local construction is not always earthquake proof.

Safety Concerns: Chile is one of South America's safest countries. Keep an eye out for pickpockets just in case.

Health Concerns: Santiago has winter smog warnings so use caution if you are sensitive to air-quality shifts. When volcanoes erupt, this also adversely affects air-quality nationwide. Visitors should also be aware of rip-tides on beaches.